Farm Operations Manager - Sustainable Practices

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee a Centurion farm's day-to-day activities and champion sustainable farming practices. You will lead a diverse team, optimize resources, and ensure compliance with regulations across the operation.

The role requires a minimum of five years in farm operations leadership, strong budgeting and record-keeping skills, and expertise in crop health, soil science, and productivity improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in farm operations management or a similar supervisory role.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale crop production or mixed farming operations.
• In-depth knowledge of sustainable farming techniques, soil science, and crop protection.
• Experience with farm budgeting, financial management and record-keeping.
• Strong leadership, team management and communication skills.
• Proficiency in using farm management software and basic mechanical skills for equipment maintenance.
• A valid driver's license is essential for managing operations in Centurion and surrounding areas.
• Commitment to environmental stewardship and agricultural best practices.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest activities.
• Lead and train a team of farm workers, providing supervision and performance evaluation.
• Develop and implement crop rotation plans and fertilization programs to improve soil health and yields.
• Monitor irrigation systems and promote efficient water usage in line with sustainable practices.
• Enforce biosecurity and pest management protocols to protect crops and livestock.
• Manage procurement of seeds, fertilizers, equipment and other inputs.
• Maintain farm machinery and equipment, ensuring safe operation and maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, safety standards and labor laws.
• Record and analyze farm data (yield, costs, labor) to identify improvements.
• Contribute to the farm's long-term strategic planning and execution.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture/Farm Management

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive agricultural enterprise committed to sustainable farming, is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee their extensive operations in **Centurion**. This role is central to ensuring the efficient and effective day-to-day running of the farm, with a strong emphasis on implementing and maintaining environmentally sound agricultural practices. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing a diverse team, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. This is a hands-on leadership position that requires a deep understanding of modern farming techniques, crop cycles, and livestock management, if applicable. You will be a key player in driving productivity, quality, and sustainability across all farm activities. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership skills, a meticulous eye for detail, and a passion for agriculture and conservation within the **Gauteng** region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest activities.
• Manage and lead a team of farm workers, providing training, supervision, and performance evaluation.
• Develop and implement crop rotation plans and fertilization programs to enhance soil health and crop yields.
• Monitor irrigation systems and ensure efficient water usage in alignment with sustainable practices.
• Implement and enforce strict biosecurity and pest management protocols to protect crops and livestock.
• Manage the procurement of seeds, fertilizers, equipment, and other necessary farm inputs.
• Maintain farm machinery and equipment, ensuring they are in good working order and safety standards are met.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental regulations, safety standards, and labor laws.
• Record and analyze farm data, including yield, input costs, and labor expenses, to identify areas for improvement.
• Contribute to the development and execution of the farm's long-term strategic plan.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in farm operations management or a similar supervisory role.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale crop production or mixed farming operations.
• In-depth knowledge of sustainable farming techniques, soil science, and crop protection.
• Experience with farm budgeting, financial management, and record-keeping.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in using farm management software and basic mechanical skills for equipment maintenance.
• A valid driver's license is essential for managing operations in **Centurion** and surrounding areas.
• Commitment to environmental stewardship and agricultural best practices.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including a performance-related bonus, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement benefits.
• You will have access to modern farm equipment and technologies.
• The company provides opportunities for professional development through workshops and training programs.

This role is based on-site in **Centurion**, offering a stable and challenging career within a company dedicated to sustainable agriculture and innovation.